New tools for Black pregnant and postpartum mothers to save lives

The United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, with Black women facing a significantly higher risk of complications and death during pregnancy and postpartum. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black mothers are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts (CDC, 2023). This disparity is driven by systemic healthcare inequities, implicit bias, and limited access to quality maternal care.

To combat this crisis, new tools, technologies, and initiatives are being developed to provide better support and care for Black pregnant and postpartum mothers. From AI-driven health monitoring to community-based support networks, these resources are helping to close the gap and save lives.

1. AI-Powered Health Monitoring and Telemedicine

One of the most promising developments in maternal healthcare is the rise of AI-driven health monitoring and telemedicine platforms. These tools help detect early warning signs of complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and postpartum hemorrhage—conditions that disproportionately affect Black mothers.

• The Irth App (Birth, but Without the "B"): Irth is a crowdsourced app designed specifically for Black and Brown women to rate and review their experiences with doctors, hospitals, and birthing centers. By collecting real-world feedback, Irth helps Black mothers make informed choices about their care while holding medical institutions accountable for racial disparities in treatment (Davis, 2022).
• Telehealth Services: Platforms like Maven Clinic and Mahmee offer virtual prenatal and postpartum care, connecting Black mothers with culturally competent OB-GYNs, midwives, and doulas. Telehealth has been instrumental in providing continuous care, especially for those in maternity care deserts—areas with limited access to hospitals and obstetricians.

2. Wearable Health Devices for Pregnancy and Postpartum Care

Wearable technology is playing a critical role in preventing pregnancy-related deaths by offering real-time health tracking and early detection of potential complications.

• Owlet and Babyscripts: Smart wearable devices like Owlet’s pregnancy monitor and Babyscripts’ remote monitoring system help track vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate. These tools can detect early symptoms of hypertension or postpartum cardiomyopathy, which are leading causes of maternal mortality among Black women (ACOG, 2022).
• Apple Watch and Fitbit for Maternal Health: Studies suggest that commercial wearables like the Apple Watch and Fitbit can monitor irregular heart rhythms and track stress levels, sleep patterns, and activity, all of which are crucial indicators of maternal health (American Heart Association, 2023).

3. Culturally Competent Maternal Health Programs

Systemic racism in healthcare has led many Black mothers to experience dismissal of their symptoms and concerns. To counteract this, community-driven programs and initiatives are working to provide culturally competent care and advocacy.

• Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA): This organization leads policy initiatives, education, and community engagement to improve Black maternal health outcomes. BMMA also provides resources and training for healthcare providers to address bias in medical treatment.
• The National Black Doulas Association (NBDA): Studies show that having a doula during pregnancy and childbirth leads to lower rates of C-sections, fewer birth complications, and better postpartum recovery. NBDA connects Black mothers with trained Black doulas who understand their unique challenges and healthcare concerns (Gruber et al., 2013).

4. Mental Health Support and Postpartum Care

Black mothers are at a higher risk of postpartum depression (PPD) but are less likely to receive treatment due to stigma, lack of access, and racial bias in mental healthcare. New tools are emerging to provide better mental health support.

• The SHADES App: SHADES is a digital mental health platform specifically designed for Black and Brown mothers struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety. The app offers counseling services, self-care tools, and peer support groups.
• Postpartum Helplines and Virtual Therapy: Organizations like Therapy for Black Girls and Black Women’s Health Imperative provide free or low-cost access to licensed Black therapists, ensuring culturally sensitive mental healthcare for new mothers.

Conclusion

The alarming maternal mortality rate among Black women is not just a health issue—it’s a public health crisis. However, new tools and initiatives are making a difference by providing real-time health monitoring, telemedicine access, culturally competent care, and mental health support. By investing in these innovations and addressing systemic healthcare disparities, we can work toward a future where every Black mother receives the care and support she deserves.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). "Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Maternal Mortality."
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2022). "Hypertension in Pregnancy and Postpartum Cardiomyopathy."
• Davis, K. (2022). "The Irth App: Fighting Bias in Maternal Healthcare." Forbes.
• Gruber, K. J., Cupito, S. H., & Dobson, C. F. (2013). "Impact of Doulas on Healthy Birth Outcomes." Journal of Perinatal Education.
• American Heart Association (AHA). (2023). "Wearable Technology and Maternal Health: A New Frontier."